Top

The person who performs an action in a scene, such as tying or applying sensation, regardless of who holds the power.

A top is the person doing the action in a scene, for example the one tying the rope or using an implement. Topping describes the active, hands-on role. It is distinct from being dominant: a top focuses on the physical act, while dominance is about control and authority. Some people top without taking a dominant headspace, and a service top performs actions at the direction of the bottom.